Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
Embark on an epic 20-day journey through Nepal’s rugged and remote wilderness, encircling the 7th highest mountain in the world, Dhaulagiri (8,167 m). This challenging trek features two high-altitude passes, French Pass (5,360 m) and Dhampus Pass (5,240 m), offering stunning views of glaciers, alpine meadows, and the Himalayas. Ideal for experienced trekkers seeking solitude, adventure, and breathtaking vistas, this trek is supported by full camping, ensuring an immersive experience in nature. Discover hidden valleys and end your journey in the charming village of Marpha. Best trekked during the seasons of April–May and September–November.

Trip Highlights
- Trek around Dhaulagiri, the 7th highest mountain in the world
- Cross the challenging French Pass (5,360m) and Dhampus Pass (5,240m)
- Camp at Italian Base Camp, Dhaulagiri Base Camp, and Hidden Valley
- Marvel at glaciers, alpine meadows, and high-altitude terrain
- Explore the tranquil village of Marpha, known for its apple orchards
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Itinerary (20 Days)
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m)
- Pickup from Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to hotel in Kathmandu
- Rest or explore Thamel, Kathmandu’s vibrant district
Day 2: Kathmandu – Trek preparation & sightseeing (optional)
- Visit Swoyambhunath and Kathmandu Durbar Square for cultural immersion
- Trek briefing with your guide, check trekking gear, and finalize permits
Day 3: Drive to Beni (830m) – 9 hrs
- Scenic drive west through hills, river valleys, and lush countryside to Beni
- Overnight in a guesthouse
Day 4: Drive to Muri (1,850m) – 5 hrs by jeep (if road allows)
- Off-road jeep ride via Darbang and Babiyachaur, experiencing rural life
- Camp at Muri village
Day 5: Trek to Boghara (2,080m) – 6 hrs
- Begin trekking through villages, lush forests, and local farmland
- Enjoy your first night of full camping support
Day 6: Trek to Dobang (2,520m) – 6 hrs
- Trek through dense forests, narrow trails, and waterfalls along the way
- Overnight at a campsite
Day 7: Trek to Sallaghari (3,100m) – 5 hrs
- Gradual ascent through alpine forest with scenic surroundings
Day 8: Trek to Italian Base Camp (3,660m) – 4 hrs
- Enjoy magnificent views of Dhaulagiri I, the towering Himalayan peak
- Camp beside a glacier for an unforgettable experience
Day 9: Acclimatization day at Italian Base Camp
- Short hikes around the camp to acclimatize and enjoy the surrounding views
- Rest day to adjust to the altitude
Day 10: Trek to Glacier Camp (4,200m) – 5 hrs
- Steep trail along moraine, navigate carefully for safety
- Camp at Glacier Camp to prepare for further ascents
Day 11: Trek to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,740m) – 6 hrs
- Ascend through challenging terrain to reach Dhaulagiri Base Camp
- Spectacular views of Dhaulagiri I, II, and III
Day 12: Acclimatization day at Dhaulagiri Base Camp
- Rest day for acclimatization and preparation for crossing French Pass
- Explore the area or rest as you adjust to higher altitudes
Day 13: Cross French Pass (5,360m), descend to Hidden Valley (5,050m) – 7 hrs
- Cross the French Pass, the highest point of the trek
- Descend to the Hidden Valley, a serene and stunning spot
Day 14: Rest day or exploration in Hidden Valley
- Optional ridge hike for further exploration or simply relax in Hidden Valley
Day 15: Cross Dhampus Pass (5,240m), descend to Yak Kharka (3,680m) – 6 hrs
- Ascend to the second high pass, Dhampus Pass
- Descend to Yak Kharka, an area known for its alpine meadows
Day 16: Trek to Marpha (2,670m) – 5 hrs
- Hike to Marpha village, a beautiful settlement famous for apple orchards
- Enjoy the local culture and apple-based products
Day 17: Drive to Pokhara – 7 hrs by jeep
- Journey to Pokhara and unwind by the serene lakeside
Day 18: Drive or fly to Kathmandu – 7 hrs / 25 mins
- Return to Kathmandu, either by a scenic jeep drive or a quick flight
Day 19: Free day in Kathmandu
- A day to explore Kathmandu further or do some last-minute shopping
Day 20: Departure
- Transfer to the airport for your onward journey
What's included in our package
Transport
- Airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu
- Private vehicle from Kathmandu → Beni
- Local jeep for Beni to Muri (road conditions permitting)
- Local vehicle from Marpha to Pokhara
- Private vehicle or flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Accommodation
- 4 nights in Kathmandu hotel (twin-sharing, tourist standard)
- 1 night in Beni lodge
- 1 night in Marpha lodge
- 1 night in Pokhara
- 12 nights full-service camping (including tents, foam mattresses, kitchen, toilet tent)
Meals
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner with tea/coffee)
- Boiled drinking water during the trek
- Welcome and farewell dinner in Kathmandu
Staff & Support
- Licensed English-speaking trekking guide
- Experienced cook and kitchen helpers
- Porters (1 per 2 trekkers for baggage)
- Staff insurance, meals, and wages
Permits & Paperwork
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- Local government trekking fees
Safety Equipment
- First aid kit
- Pulse oximeter for altitude monitoring
What's not included in our package
Exclusions
- International airfare to/from Nepal
- Nepal visa fees
- Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara (except welcome/farewell dinners)
- Personal travel/medical insurance (must cover emergency evacuation)
- Personal trekking equipment (sleeping bag, down jacket – available for rent)
- Tips for guides, porters, and kitchen crew (recommended ~$150–200 per trekker)
- Delays or additional costs due to weather, illness, or unforeseen circumstances
- Alcohol, soft drinks, snacks, bottled drinks during the trek
- Entry fees for optional Kathmandu sightseeing
Gear List
Clothing
- Insulating jacket for cold weather
- Waterproof and windproof jacket
- Trekking pants and shirts
- Base layers (thermals)
- Hat, gloves, and scarf
- Comfortable socks (preferably wool)
Footwear
- Sturdy, waterproof trekking boots
- Camp shoes (sandal/flip-flops)
Accessories
- Trekking poles
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Hat and sun protection (sunscreen, lip balm)
Toiletries & Health
- Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)
- Basic first-aid kit
- Hand sanitizers and wipes
- Water purification tablets or filters
Electronics & Documents
- Camera (optional)
- Power bank (ensure it's sufficient for the trek)
- Passport, visa, and permits (in waterproof bag)
- Trekking permits
Tips & Considerations
- Altitude awareness: Be mindful of altitude sickness and take it slow during acclimatization days.
- Fitness level: This trek is for experienced trekkers with high-altitude trekking experience.
- Weather: Weather conditions can change rapidly, so be prepared for sudden changes.
- Customize Your Trek: We offer flexibility to cater to your pace and preferences. Let us know if you need any modifications to the itinerary.
Reach out to us!
Book Your Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Now!
Are you looking for an adventure in the Himalayas? This trek offers solitude, breathtaking views, and a profound connection with nature. We are here to customise this journey according to your preferences. Whether you want to adjust your pace or include optional excursions, you have complete control over your experience. Don’t wait—let’s create the trek of a lifetime together!